NFL Trade Deadline: Analysts Propose Ten Roster Moves

The NFL trade deadline arrives in two days, prompting analysts to propose ten specific transactions that would benefit both involved teams.

Last season recorded 27 in-season trades, the highest total in 25 years, with 12 occurring on the final day alone. This year, the market appears similarly active. The Seattle Seahawks have already strengthened their offensive line by acquiring Quenton Nelson, while the San Francisco 49ers re-signed DeForest Buckner. The Chicago Bears added Jeffery Simmons to their defense, and the Baltimore Ravens secured quarterback Jacoby Brissett. These moves have set the stage for further speculation regarding playoff contenders.

One proposed deal involves sending Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings for a conditional fifth-round pick. Cousins spent six seasons in Minnesota and ranks second in the NFL with 19 passing touchdowns. He would replace Kyler Murray, who currently leads a struggling passing attack. The Vikings are seeking a familiar presence to aid their Super Bowl aspirations.

The Buffalo Bills could improve their bottom-ten defense by trading for Cardinals safety Budda Baker in exchange for a third-round pick. Baker, an eight-time Pro Bowler, has recorded 51 tackles and 3.5 sacks this season. He is one of only eight players in history to reach 1,000 career tackles before age 30. His addition would address Buffalo's issues with yards and points allowed.

The New England Patriots might acquire Ravens running back Derrick Henry for a third-round pick. Head coach Mike Vrabel previously coached Henry in Tennessee and currently manages former Titans A.J. Brown and Kevin Byard. Henry averages 76.6 rushing yards per game, which would support a Patriots rushing offense that ranks 12th in the league.

The Las Vegas Raiders are linked to Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens in a trade involving a second-round pick. Pickens is playing on the franchise tag, while the Cowboys face cap constraints due to high salaries for players like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. Adding Pickens would provide a perimeter threat for quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

Other suggested moves include the Denver Broncos acquiring Jets running back Breece Hall for a third-round pick to fix their rushing attack. The Kansas City Chiefs are linked to Colts wide receiver Josh Downs, who has the second-most receiving yards from the slot since entering the league. The Pittsburgh Steelers may trade for Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey, sending back Roman Wilson and a second-round pick. Finally, the New York Giants could sign Titans running back Tony Pollard for a fourth-round pick, while the Jacksonville Jaguars might target Eagles defensive tackle Moro Ojomo.